ARTISAN PROGRAM

This curriculum was developed by Joe Trippi to take students to the next level. If you have ever seen pieces with delicate inlay, veneering, and crisp intricate carving and wondered how it was done; we have the system that breaks these tasks down in to enjoyable lessons.

The student must first have a basic understanding of joinery and furniture construction. The program also relies heavily on the students efficient use of hand tools. These skills are developed over a period of time with the student mastering tasks one lesson building on the last.

This is an exciting program that does not promise "instant" success; however, the skills that are developed will last the student a lifetime.

The students that complete this course of study are accomplished self-confident furniture makers.

Classes are scheduled through the year as students complete pre-requisite courses.

FURNITURE PROJECTS

Philadelphia Footstool

A great start! This piece introduces the student to working in non-linear furniture. The importance of proper filling joinery practiced is now mastered and put to use. The student is also introduced to furniture carving and fairing. When completed, a truly beautiful hand-made piece is ready for finish and the upholsterer.

Queen Anne Cabinet

This class is an introduction to solid wood construction. Proper joinery selection will be the focus. Students will put sliding dovetails, socketed dovetails, mortise & tenon, and ship lap joinery into practice. Doors are inset and cockbeaded. Shaping and proper installation of ogee bracket feet will also be covered. A beautiful cabinet ready for finish!

Chippendale Desk

Beautiful period piece sure to become a family heirloom. Some of the new topics to be covered are longer cabriole legs, ball & claw feet, full length transition pieces, drawer construction and veneered and cockbeaded drawer fronts. Students will also get involved in the process of designing the top of the desk.

Hepplewhite Table

An introduction to Federal Period book match veneered curved rails with beading, inlayed flowers, stringing and banding. Veneered ovals will be made and inlayed. New challenges with the joinery as the rails are angled. The pictures say it all.

Chippendale Chair

This is certainly advanced chair making. Most of the joinery is hand-cut. The proper sequence of heavily carved furniture will be the emphasis.

Needless to say, it is a beautiful piece ready for finish and the upholster.